Hyperthyroidism in cats
General Information
Hyperthyroidism is a disease of older cats, caused by excessive production of thyroid hormones. The usual cause for increased hormone production is a tumor of the thyroid gland. These tumors may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant. The reason these glands develop tumors is not known.
Signs of excessive thyroid production include weight loss despite a ravenous appetite, frequent bowel movements, increased thirst, and rapid heartbeat. The effects on the heart may be severe and result in congestive heart failure.
Surgical removal of the thyroid gland is the recommended treatment. If the gland is totally removed, replacement thyroid hormone is given for life. Long-term medical therapy is not recommended because the drugs can have serious side effects when used for long periods. When serious heart disease has already occurred, medical treatment is used until the pet is healthy enough to undergo surgery.
Important Points in Treatment
A complete examination, including blood tests and radiographs, is performed before the surgery to be sure the tumor, if present, has not already spread and to evaluate the condition of the heart and other internal organs.
Thyroid hormone levels are checked after surgery and during drug therapy to determine the proper replacement dose.
Hyperthyroidism is a disease of older cats, caused by excessive production of thyroid hormones. The usual cause for increased hormone production is a tumor of the thyroid gland. These tumors may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant. The reason these glands develop tumors is not known.
Signs of excessive thyroid production include weight loss despite a ravenous appetite, frequent bowel movements, increased thirst, and rapid heartbeat. The effects on the heart may be severe and result in congestive heart failure.
Surgical removal of the thyroid gland is the recommended treatment. If the gland is totally removed, replacement thyroid hormone is given for life. Long-term medical therapy is not recommended because the drugs can have serious side effects when used for long periods. When serious heart disease has already occurred, medical treatment is used until the pet is healthy enough to undergo surgery.
Important Points in Treatment
A complete examination, including blood tests and radiographs, is performed before the surgery to be sure the tumor, if present, has not already spread and to evaluate the condition of the heart and other internal organs.
Thyroid hormone levels are checked after surgery and during drug therapy to determine the proper replacement dose.